How to pull a tick from a dog? - briefly
Grasp the tick with fine‑point tweezers as close to the skin as possible and pull upward with steady, even pressure until the mouthparts detach; then clean the bite site and wash your hands. Dispose of the removed tick by immersing it in alcohol or sealing it in a container.
How to pull a tick from a dog? - in detail
Removing a tick from a canine requires precision and care to avoid leaving mouthparts embedded, which can cause infection. Follow these steps:
- Gather equipment: fine‑point tweezers or a commercial tick‑removal tool, disposable gloves, antiseptic solution, and a sealed container for disposal.
- Prepare the area: put on gloves, expose the attachment site, and clean the surrounding skin with antiseptic.
- Grasp the parasite: position the tweezers as close to the skin as possible, securing the tick’s head without squeezing the body.
- Apply steady traction: pull upward with constant, even force. Do not twist or jerk, which may break the mouthparts.
- Inspect the tick: ensure the entire head is removed. If fragments remain, repeat the removal process at the same spot.
- Disinfect the bite: clean the wound with antiseptic and monitor for redness or swelling.
- Dispose of the tick: place it in the sealed container, add alcohol, and discard according to local regulations.
- Record details: note the date, location, and size of the tick for veterinary reference, especially if the animal shows signs of illness.
If any part of the tick remains embedded, or if the site becomes inflamed, seek veterinary assistance promptly. Regular checks after outdoor activities reduce the risk of unnoticed infestations.